General Wilkinson has directed that the public should pay for the musical instruments purchased for his band. Enclosed are the bill and vouchers and Wilkins asks that his account should be credited since they were charged to him.
Angus encloses a letter for the Secretary of War and thanks Hodgdon for informing him how to apply for the guns, stores, and ammunition for his men and for the defense of his post. He stresses the urgency of obtaining these articles since he is currently in a defenseless state. He also wants to know how many non-commissioned officers should be assigned to an artillery company.
Among a number of supply and accounting matters, Bryant notes that the five hundred stand of arms ordered to Providence have been put on board he sloop that is to sail the following week. The transportation cost will be one-third of what it would cost to transport by land.
Cover for Captain Gates' receipt. Informs Simmons that he has not been able to obtain receipts from Lt. David Hale. Cited in Simmons to Jackson, 07/20/1798.
Response to McHenry's questions on the Provisional Army. Argues that - in the event of the bill being passed into law - President Adams should appoint officers for the army without delay, although the appointment of higher offices is not as urgent. Says field officers should be composed of proper and fit men.
McHenry lists the candidates for appointments in the augmented army including those he considers the most intelligent and active officers in the American army.
Washington discusses his appointment to the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Provisional Army and how pleased he is with the public's confidence in him. He will accept the commission with the understanding that he will not be called into active duty unless the army absolutely requires his presence in the field.
At Niagara Town Mr. Williams took charge of Edward Day's baggage which contains the small trunk with the due bills. Those issued to James Caldwell will be faitfully transmitted by special messenger if necessary. The termination of this business will not injure the public, wound Hoddgdon, or disgrace Day.
Among other accounting and supply matters, Craig notes that the position of Assistant Quartermaster at the post at Natchez has been given to Mr. Bates who therefore will be leaving Pittsburgh soon. A replacement for him is needed whose compensation will be thirty dollars per month plus subsistence and two rations per day.
Hodgdon states that the nine pounder cannon will not be transported until a suitable craft arrives and a party of men is available to receive them and get them on board.
